Hello, I'm
Danny Schantz
Nuclear Engineering Researcher & Machine Learning Developer
Graduate student at the University of Florida, developing Physics-Informed Neural Networks to solve complex plasma physics problems.
About Me
Bridging the gap between theoretical physics and computational solutions
Nuclear Engineering
University of Florida
I'm a Nuclear Engineering graduate student at the University of Florida with a background in Chemical Engineering. My research focuses on developing innovative computational methods to solve complex problems in plasma physics.
Currently, I work as a Research Assistant in the Plasma and Fusion Group, where I develop Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) to solve the relativistic Fokker-Planck equation. I leverage UF's HiPerGator HPC resources for large-scale model training.
My work combines deep expertise in plasma physics with cutting-edge machine learning techniques to predict primary runaway electron formation rates and model Dreicer generation mechanisms.
Plasma Physics
Researching runaway electron dynamics and Fokker-Planck equations
Machine Learning
Developing Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) for scientific computing
Software Development
Building deep learning workflows with Python, PyTorch, and HPC systems
Research
Investigating Dreicer generation mechanisms and electron formation rates
Experience & Education
My academic and professional journey in nuclear engineering and computational research
Work Experience
Graduate Research Assistant
Aug 2025 – PresentPlasma and Fusion Group, University of Florida
- ▹Developing Physics-Informed Neural Networks to solve plasma physics partial differential equations using UF HiPerGator HPC resources
- ▹Designing deep learning workflows in Python and PyTorch to model plasma dynamics in tokamak fusion devices
- ▹Focus on relativistic electron formation and electron distribution evolution
Student Assistant – Reactor Operations
Sep 2025 – PresentUniversity of Florida Training Reactor (UFTR)
- ▹Completing NRC-certified training curriculum in preparation for Reactor Operator licensure
- ▹Acquiring knowledge of reactor systems including radiation detection, thermal-hydraulics, instrumentation and controls
- ▹Assisting with daily reactor operations as a qualified second person and performing instrumentation maintenance
Materials Science R&D Intern
Jan 2024 – Aug 2025Mackinac Technology Company
- ▹Led experimental design and process optimization for a DOE-funded Liquid Silicone Rubber window project
- ▹Eliminated 99.6% of bubble formation while increasing surface uniformity by 92%
- ▹Conducted literature reviews and contributed to SBIR grant writing efforts for ongoing research funding
Education
Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering Sciences
Aug 2025 – May 2027University of Florida
- ▹Thesis Track with 4.0 GPA
- ▹Research on runaway electron generation in spherical tokamak plasmas under Dr. McDevitt
- ▹Focus on Physics-Informed Neural Networks for fusion applications
Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Chemical Engineering)
Aug 2021 – May 2025Calvin University
- ▹GPA: 3.5
- ▹Strong foundation in thermodynamics and transport phenomena
- ▹Background in mathematical modeling and computational methods
Featured Projects
A selection of my research projects and personal work in computational physics and software development
Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Plasma Physics
Developing PINNs to solve the relativistic Fokker-Planck equation for modeling runaway electron dynamics in fusion plasmas. Utilizes PyTorch and HiPerGator HPC for large-scale training.
Dreicer Generation Modeling
Deep learning workflows designed to accurately model Dreicer generation mechanisms and predict primary runaway electron formation rates in plasma systems.
Other Notable Projects
Skills & Technologies
A comprehensive toolkit spanning scientific computing, machine learning, and software development
Programming Languages
Machine Learning & AI
Scientific Computing
Domain Expertise
Tools & Technologies
Soft Skills
Get In Touch
I'm always open to discussing research opportunities, collaborations, or just having a conversation about physics and machine learning.
Send a Message
Or email me directly at dannyschantz1@icloud.com